The savvy traveller is well aware that Berlin hosts some of the best examples of gourmet luxury dining: there are as many as 19 starred establishments within the city boundaries, dozens of prestigious cake shops and numerous exclusive five–star hotels, from the legendary Adlon Kempinski (pictured above) to contemporary venues.
Venues that promise some memorable experiences, without necessarily breaking the bank, but only on the condition you follow our tips on where to eat in Berlin and what to try on a budget of 25, 50 and 100 Euros.
Where to Eat in Berlin from 0 to 25 Euros
At breakfast time or mid–afternoon, a plunge into the spirit of Berlin calls for the bitter sweet flavour of chocolate in the temple dedicated to the "food of the gods", Rausch Schokoladenhaus-Café & Restaurant (two hot chocolates topped with cream, 15 Euros).
Alternatively, a vast selection attends you on the sixth and seventh floors of the KaDeWe, a huge luxury department store opened in 1907. KaDeWe is the short name adopted by Berliners to identify the Kaufhaus des Westens (western department store).
As an aperitif, you may choose to pick up a plate of seven oysters with an equal number of sauces to go with them (starting from 19 Euros) or wild salmon, rye bread and salted butter with a glass of Prosecco and still remain within the limits of your budget, or spend a few extra euros by ordering Champagne.
Where to Eat in Berlin from 25 to 50 Euros
Chef Tim Raue's establishment in Rudi-Dutschke Strasse 26, not far away from the historical Checkpoint Charlie, even appears in the top 10 restaurant charts drawn up by German food critic Heinz Horrmann. This is the chef who, back in 2013, cooked for Barack Obama, Angela Merkel and their guests. Also on that occasion the menu revealed a touch of Asian influence, his signature.
From his midday menu, we recommend the chicken Dim Sum with Jerusalem artichoke foam, hearts of palm, water cress and black truffle, and the Peking duck interpretation TR: dishes of a perfect equilibrium (three courses, 48 Euros).
A visit to the Fischers Fritz with its two Michelin stars, awarded for seven years running to the restaurant run by chef Christian Lohse, will also afford a glimpse of the sumptuous Regent Berlin, one of the most exclusive hotels in the city adorned with gilt mirrors, marquetry and crystal chandeliers.
To enjoy a classic, order the trout in bread crust accompanied by a great Riesling and you will also be treated to a perfect gueridon service (50 Euros approximately, only in the evening).
Where to Eat in Berlin From 50 to 100 Euros
Even the prohibitive dream of a meal at Reinstoff can be realised by juggling the accounts a little. A visit to this two-starred establishment is well worth it, if just for the location, a former industrial building of pared-down design, the Edison Höfe at Mitte, where the first German lamp bulbs were produced.
The "ganznah" is the nearest menu and the "weiterdraußen" means further away. Daniel Achilles is able to transform even the humblest of ingredients into great dishes. The manageress Sabine Demel will be delighted to illustrate the dishes on the complete menu of six courses at 110 Euros. Remember that it is only open in the evening and deserves a visit anyway, even if you have to do without wine to stay within your budget.
Hugos in Budapester Strasse is popular for its cuisine and the breathtaking view it offers of the city. Enter the lobby of the Intercontinental Berlin hotel, get the lift up to the 14th floor and order a couple of drinks and some tapas as you enjoy the view. If you wish to dine on your highest budget, you can afford the four course vegetarian menu at 85 Euros, comprising roasted bell pepper (Borlotti beans, sweet onions, smoked oil).
For those who love rooftop restaurants, another address is that of Facil in Potsdamer Strasse 3, on the fifth floor of The Mandala Hotel, where chef Michael Kempf masterfully runs the two Michelin–starred venue with his exuberant dishes and a dash of well calibrated innovation. It would even be worth it just for the creations of pastry chef Thomas Yoshida, awarded by the Gault & Millau guide in 2016. The lunch menu, 16 Euros for each course, is an ideal solution for budget management.